Sailor captures her dream career
Perseverance and patience were rewarded when a young creative sailor was given the opportunity to pursue her passion for photography in the RAN.
SMNIS Genae Kelly grew up in Bendigo, Victoria. At 17, she moved to Darwin to complete her schooling, where she learnt about the Navy from a close family member.
“I finished high school and joined as a Gap Year sailor,” SMN Kelly said.
“I turned 18 and wanted to do something different, something I really loved.”
After completing her Gap Year program, SMN Kelly knew exactly what career she wanted to pursue.
However, the imagery specialist employment category was not open for direct entry at the time, and only accepted transfers from current full-time serving members.
“I never really wanted to leave the Navy,” SMN Kelly said.
“It was only because the imagery specialist employment category wasn’t open for direct entry yet that I had to make an alternate decision.
“The job that appealed to me most in Navy was photography.”
SMN Kelly chose to revert to reservist status in order to keep her options open.
'I knew this was the best option for me. The people were always supportive, and it was something I absolutely loved.'
During this down time, SMN Kelly bought a camera and spent six months backpacking across Europe, honing her photography skills while waiting for an opportunity to return to Navy service.
She stayed in contact with the Navy Imagery Unit, checking for updates to the recruitment process.
She believed Navy would eventually have a position for her in her dream job.
“I knew this was the best option for me. The people were always supportive, and it was something I absolutely loved,” SMN Kelly said.
OIC at Navy Imagery Unit – East, CPO Helen Frank, said SMN Kelly consistently demonstrated a positive attitude and strong enthusiasm for the role.
“She was very excited to hear the Navy had a position open on the 2025 Imagery Specialist Course,” CPO Frank said.
“I told her, ‘Put your application in and we’ll see how you go’.”
SMN Kelly wasted no time in applying to come back.
She said her passion for travel and previous experience during her Gap Year service made the decision an easy one.
She became the first Gap Year sailor to transfer into the imagery specialist category.
“I knew it would happen one day,” SMN Kelly said.
“I’m grateful to be surrounded by such supportive people.
“The Navy has truly become like a second family to me.”
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